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The bassist/composer never stops honing his craft.

Friday May 07, 2010.     By Centerstage Chicago Staff

Music Feed

Follow Friday is a weekly interview series in which each Chicago artist we talk to recommends a fellow local act.

This week's guest: Jeff Greene
Recommended by: Greg Ward

They say you never really stop learning, and bassist/composer Jeff Greene is a good example of that. Though he officially left school in 2004, study has been a major theme of his professional career, from a stop at the Steans Institute for Young Artists at Ravinia and Betty Carter's Jazz Ahead program at Washington D.C.'s Kennedy Center. Hitting the books has paid off; his ensemble, blink., was signed to the renowned Thirsty Ear label in 2008 and has continued to build a strong following for its creative jazz. Read on for some academic inspiration.

Describe your sound in 140 characters or less.
My sound as a composer and a bassist has curiosity and thoughtfulness, and my goal is to always be genuine.

Where and when was your first show - and what was it like?
My first show after I moved to Chicago was at the Elbo Room on the North Side and I was the house bass player for a jam session. I remember being excited about the level of players that I met that night and the prospect of getting some real experience by digging into the Chicago music scene.

Name three of your favorite Chicago spots.
The Whistler: it's great to play there but also just to go listen to music and have good drinks.

The Hungry Brain: one of the best improvised music series in the city every Sunday night.

Metropolis: my favorite place for coffee anywhere, they also host live music and work by local artists.

What Chicago artist/band should we interview next and why?
The person you should interview next is Dave Miller, guitarist and leader of the band Algernon. I'm constantly impressed with his passion and dedication to music. His playing and compositions are some of my favorite to listen to and he's already developed a unique, personal sound for both. He plays with a whole lot of projects around Chicago so you'll likely, and should, be hearing from him soon.